Key Points
- Tottenham Hotspur have been linked repeatedly with a move for Manchester City attacker Savinho, who has not played regularly at City.
- Spurs attempted to sign Savinho last summer with an offer in the region of £60-70 million, but the transfer did not happen.
- Tottenham are reportedly planning a strong January transfer push with a budget of around £100 million, potentially including a renewed bid for Savinho.
- Savinho is highly rated, hailed as a “top player” by Pep Guardiola, and viewed as a player with the potential to be world class.
- Manchester City are currently reluctant to sell Savinho in January as they aim to compete for major trophies this season.
- Savinho needs regular playing time if he wants to participate in next summer’s World Cup for Brazil, making Tottenham an attractive destination.
- Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has requested at least one more forward in January amid squad injury concerns.
- Former football executive Keith Wyness expects a deal for Savinho could happen in January, possibly for around £50 million.
- Guardiola recently indicated that Savinho is close to signing a new contract with Manchester City, signalling the club’s desire to keep him.
Why is Tottenham interested in Savinho again in January?
As reported by Dean Jones of Team Talk, Tottenham Hotspur are set to use a £100 million transfer budget in the January window, with renewed interest in Savinho if he becomes available. The Brazilian forward has had limited game time at Manchester City, which has presented an opportunity for Spurs to step back into the negotiation to provide Savinho with regular football. Thomas Frank, Spurs’ manager, is understood to have requested further additions in the attacking department to bolster the squad depth ahead of a demanding second half of the season. Savinho’s “pace, flair, and unpredictability” on the flanks are seen as qualities that could significantly aid Tottenham’s ambitions.
What has Manchester City said about Savinho’s status at the club?
Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, has expressed a clear desire to retain Savinho amid speculation about his potential departure. Speaking after a recent match, Guardiola confirmed the club’s intention to keep the young Brazilian. He suggested that the summer offer from Tottenham was not sufficient, saying,
“We were so clear that we want to keep him. It depends on the offer. Maybe the offer was not good enough for the club, I don’t know.”
Guardiola also mentioned that Savinho is close to signing a new contract, highlighting the club’s long-term plans involving him.
How likely is it that Savinho will move in January?
According to sources from Team Talk and insights shared by Football Insider’s Keith Wyness, while there is a strong belief that a January move is possible, the decision ultimately hinges on Manchester City’s willingness to part with the player. The club is aiming for trophies this season and keeping a deep squad is a priority. However, Wyness, a former Premier League chief executive, believes Tottenham could secure a deal potentially around £50 million, which would be considered a good opportunity for both Spurs and Savinho. That said, Tottenham manager Thomas Frank’s future and squad status might influence the club’s transfer activity, especially given some recent heavy defeats and scrutiny over the team’s performances.
How important is regular playing time for Savinho and Tottenham?
Savinho’s career development and international prospects are pivotal factors in this potential transfer. With the World Cup set for next summer, regular club football is crucial for Savinho to cement a place in Brazil’s national team. Tottenham, needing more quality on the flanks, could offer him the playing opportunities he lacks at Manchester City. Savinho’s technical ability and the expected chance to start regularly could help him fulfil his much-touted potential. Tottenham are seen as an ideal platform for him at this stage of his career, as the player will be motivated to demonstrate his skills consistently.
What are Tottenham’s transfer ambitions and how does Savinho fit in?
Tottenham’s plans for the January window include spending significant funds to strengthen the squad with particular attention to the attacking options. The injuries to players such as Dominic Solanke and James Maddison have highlighted the need for reinforcements. Savinho’s profile as a versatile, 21-year-old winger with high upside aligns well with their strategy to add pace, creativity, and depth. He has already shown glimpses of his talent at Man City and in prior stints, and Spurs see the potential to develop him into a key player. His hunger to succeed and proven performance at a young age make him a valuable target.